Edo, Ondo elections: INEC tasks governors, others on rule of law
As public campaigns build up ahead of Edo and Ondo states gubernatorial elections, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has urged incumbent governors, political parties and the media to abide by the rule of law.
In a statement by its National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Mr. Sam Olumekun, the commission frowned at the unlawful action of some incumbent governors in denying opposition parties access to public facilities.
INEC reiterated that Section 95(2) of the Electoral Act 2022 prohibits the use of State apparatus to “the advantage or disadvantage of any political party or candidate at any election.”
The commission also charged the media to be fair in providing coverage to all political parties, warning that as prescribed by Section 95(3-5), of the Act, it is obligatory for public media houses to allot equal coverage and visibility to all parties and candidates.
The statement further warned that Section 95(6) provides sanctions against heads of public media organisations, their principal officers, and other officials for contravention.
“Over the years, a recurring problem in Nigeria’s electioneering process has been the use of the power of incumbency to deny opposition parties and candidates’ access to public facilities for rallies and other campaign activities.
These include public buildings such as sports stadiums, open spaces in public places, total denial or restricted access to state-owned media (specifically radio and television stations), the imposition of excessive levies and fees for outdoor and media advertising, and even the removal or vandalisation of billboards and posters.
“These actions often result in violent clashes among party supporters and a breach of public peace.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the Commission wishes to reiterate that Section 95(2) of the Electoral Act 2022 prohibits the use of State apparatus to “the advantage or disadvantage of any political party or candidate at any election”.
“Furthermore, under Section 95(3-5), it is obligatory for public media houses to allot equal coverage and visibility to all parties and candidates. Section 95(6) provides sanctions against heads of public media organisations, their principal officers, and other officials for contravention,” INEC said.
The statement also noted that a publication containing the commission’s guidelines for the conduct of political rallies, processions and campaigns is already uploaded on its website and the same document is now uploaded its social media platforms.
